Mesa, Arizona — An Arizona man is facing criminal charges after police say they found his disabled adult son in shocking living conditions, allegedly left in a bathtub for weeks without proper care.
According to investigators, Melvin Shimkus, 52, was arrested on a charge of vulnerable adult abuse after authorities discovered his 31-year-old son, Hunter Shimkus, suffering from what prosecutors described as severe neglect inside the family’s Mesa home.
The disturbing case came to light after police responded to a welfare call late on the night of June 29, leading officers to a scene they described as deeply concerning.
Officers Describe Disturbing Conditions Inside the Home
Court documents state that Mesa Police officers responded to a report that Hunter, who reportedly has a nerve disease that prevents him from walking and significantly limits the use of his hands, had been left in a bathtub for an extended period.
When officers entered the bathroom, they reportedly encountered a strong odor.
According to court records, officers immediately smelled feces and what appeared to be rotting flesh before discovering Hunter in the bathtub with one of his legs bent in an unnatural position.
Investigators said the 31-year-old appeared to be extremely emaciated, with visible signs of severe physical deterioration.
Authorities also reported that he had multiple oozing sores across his body, raising concerns about prolonged neglect and the lack of medical treatment.
Prosecutors Allege Severe Neglect
During court proceedings, prosecutors described the condition of the victim as alarming.
“He clearly suffered from severe, severe neglect,” a prosecutor said. “The neglect was [so] extreme that it caused significant, possible permanent injuries to the victim.”
Officials have not publicly released additional details regarding Hunter’s current medical condition, but he was taken for emergency medical treatment following the discovery.
Father Claims Son Refused Medical Care
According to investigators, Melvin Shimkus told officers that he had been caring for his son over the past year.
He allegedly claimed he had placed Hunter in the bathtub about a week earlier and noticed his son’s leg bent in the opposite direction when he checked on him.
The father also told investigators that he offered to take Hunter to the hospital several times, but his son repeatedly refused medical care.
However, another family member reportedly told police that Hunter had actually been in the bathtub since May 16, much longer than the father’s account suggested.
The relative also stated that family members had repeatedly encouraged Hunter to seek medical attention, but he declined each time.
Family Says They Tried to Get Help
Hunter’s aunt, Carol Scofield, told local media that relatives made multiple attempts to convince him to accept medical treatment.
“Everything was done that we could do,” Hunter’s aunt, Carol Scofield, said. “Everyone tried to convince Hunter to go to the hospital. Hunter said no. When the paramedics came, he said no. They turned around and walked off, said we can’t touch him. He’s an adult.”
The comments have raised questions about the challenges families face when caring for adults who are legally able to refuse treatment, even in situations involving serious health concerns.
Father Remains in Custody
Melvin Shimkus made his initial court appearance on June 30 and was booked into jail following his arrest.
Court records show he is being held on a $12,000 bond while authorities continue investigating the circumstances surrounding the case.
Officials have not announced whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation moves forward.
What are your thoughts on this case? Should there be stronger legal protections for vulnerable adults who refuse medical care despite serious health risks? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
